The Daily Examiner.

The Rotorua community has expressed shock and outrage following the appearance of John Tekuru, 19, in the Rotorua District Court, charged with abducting a 3-year-old girl from an early childhood centre with the intent to have sexual connection.

Tekuru has entered no plea to the charge, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 14 years.

The incident, which occurred on March 10, has sparked widespread concern about the safety of children in early childhood centres. Parents and community members have called for stronger security measures and greater accountability to prevent such incidents in the future.

Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of support for the victim and her family, as well as demands for justice.

Judge Joanne Wickliffe has permanently suppressed the name of the daycare centre to protect the identity of the young victim.

Tekuru’s lawyer, Lisa Robertson, appearing on behalf of Scott Mills, stated there were no grounds for continued name suppression for Tekuru, and therefore did not seek it.

However, Mike Olphert, representing the daycare centre, successfully argued for permanent suppression of the centre’s name.

Crown prosecutor Anna McConachy requested a report to be carried out, and Judge Wickliffe remanded Tekuru in custody until May 14, when he will be required to enter a plea.

Local advocacy groups have voiced their concerns about the psychological impact on the victim and her family, urging authorities to provide adequate support services.

Rotorua residents have also organized a vigil to show solidarity with the victim and raise awareness about child safety.

The case has reignited discussions about the adequacy of New Zealand’s legal framework in addressing crimes against children, with some calling for harsher penalties and more robust preventive measures.